FAA warns about flying in Central, South America and eastern Pacific, citing possible ‘military activities’

The FAA issued warnings to U.S. airlines regarding flights over the eastern Pacific Ocean near Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America. These Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), distributed on Friday, advise caution due to potential risks at all altitudes, including during overflight and arrival/departure phases. The FAA cited possible "military activities" and satellite navigation interference as reasons for the advisories. The warnings cover specified areas within Mexico, Central America, Panama, Bogota, Guayaquil, and Mazatlan Oceanic Flight Regions, and airspace in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The advisories will remain in effect for 60 days, and the FAA has been contacted for further clarification on the specific reasons behind the warnings.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a warning to US airlines on Friday, advising caution when flying over Mexico, Central America, Ecuador, Colombia, and parts of the eastern Pacific Ocean. The "Notices to Airmen" alert airlines to potential risks at all altitudes, including during overflight, arrival, and departure. The FAA cited potential military activities and GPS interference as the reasons for the warning, which is set to last for 60 days. These notices are routinely issued in regions with nearby hostilities. The warning comes amid heightened tensions between the US and regional leaders, particularly following increased US military presence in the Caribbean and actions against Venezuela.

In January 2026, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued warnings to airlines to exercise caution when flying over Mexico, Central America, Ecuador, and Colombia due to unspecified "military activities." These advisories, valid for 60 days, come amid a US military buildup in Latin America, including past attacks on Venezuela. The FAA cited a "potentially hazardous situation" in areas including parts of the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California. The warnings follow incidents like a JetBlue flight taking evasive action to avoid a US Air Force plane near Venezuela. These events occurred after President Trump threatened military action against drug cartels in Mexico and Colombia.